Hernandez, 19, of Clearlake was reportedly thrown from the 1997 Chrysler Sebring during the crash, causing her fatal injuries. Litzin suffered serious injuries, including a broken back, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The Lake County District Attorney's Office filed a criminal complaint against Litzin last December, charging her with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, two counts of driving under the influence causing injury and three special allegations.

A Lake County Superior Court arrest warrant was issued Dec. 21, but she wasn't taken into custody until this week when she was reportedly picked up in Alameda County.

Wearing handcuffs and a black- and white-striped jail uniform, Litzin mainly looked down, hanging her head, during her arraignment.

Judge Andrew S. Blum took extra time explaining the charges to Litzin and her rights as a defendant after the 24-year-old initially said she didn't understand.

The judge then appointed Litzin a public defender, Doug Rhoades, who was not present in the courtroom Friday afternoon.

Litzin is due back in court Tuesday morning for appearance of counsel and plea entry. She remains in custody at the Lake County jail with bail set at $250,000.

Sunday would have been Hernandez's 21st birthday.

Jeremy Walsh is a staff reporter for Lake County Publishing. Reach him at 263-5636, ext. 37 or jwalsh@record-bee.com. Follow his court coverage on Twitter, @JeremyDWalsh or #Lakecourt.